Sale will keep siding plant on South Side

The Crane Group has sold its exterior siding business to an Atlanta company, a move that will keep the local plant at its South Side location.

The Crane Group has sold its exterior siding business to an Atlanta company, a move that will keep the local plant at its South Side location.

Georgia Gulf Corp. paid $72 million for the assets of Exterior Portfolio by Crane, according to a news release. The transfer includes a plant at 1441 Universal Rd. and about 260 employees.

"During our long relationship with Georgia Gulf, we've come to respect them for their excellence and our shared values," said Mike Crane, president of the Crane Group, in a statement.

Paul Carrico, president and CEO of Georgia Gulf, said Exterior Portfolio is a "recognized leader" in premium, insulated siding. The Columbus siding business was founded in 1977.

The local plant's top executive, Jim Ziminiski, will join his employees in the switch to the new owner.

"We've had a great run with the Crane Group, and I'll always value the friendship and leadership of Tanny, Mike and other members of the Crane team and the Crane family," he said.

The Crane Group is a privately held company in Columbus that has investments in real estate and private equity, and owns companies related to building products and manufacturing. Georgia Gulf is a publicly traded maker of chemicals and home-improvement products.